Cons: Surprisingly tight backseat offers little legroom or headroom; Rear visibility is compromised in comparison to its rivals; Expensive when compared to rivals from Porsche, Mercedes

What's new:

The 2013 Aston Martin Rapide is little changed compared to the 2012 model. Now in its fourth year on the market, the Rapide is expected to add power for the 2014 model year.

Overview:

The Rapide is Aston Martin's first 4-door sedan since the unusual Lagonda was canceled in 1990. Released for 2010, the Rapide uses the same 470-hp 6.0-liter V12 from the DB9 grand tourer. That engine, which makes 443 lb-ft of torque, is only offered with a 6-speed automatic. Fuel economy is rated at 13 miles per gallon city/19 mpg highway. The Rapide's rivals include the 500-hp Porsche Panamera Turbo and the 536-hp Mercedes S63 AMG.

The Rapide comes in two trims: the standard Rapide and the Rapide Luxe. Both seat four occupants. While base models offer high-end features, the Luxe goes even further with fitted luggage and a dual-screen DVD system for rear passengers.

The 2013 Aston Martin Rapide starts around $208,000. Luxe models add nearly $20,000 to that figure for a total price of nearly $230,000. That's more expensive than the Panamera Turbo, which starts around $139,000, and the S63 AMG, which lists for $141,000 before options.

This image is a stock photo and is not an exact representation of any vehicle offered for sale. Advertised vehicles of this model may have styling, trim levels, colors and optional equipment that differ from the stock photo.